Kanchan Bai Meghwal, a 40-year-old Anganwadi cook, died after being stung by a swarm of bees while protecting children at an Anganwadi centre in Ranpur village, Neemuch district, Madhya Pradesh on Monday afternoon. The incident occurred at the centre under Madavada Panchayat when a large number of bees suddenly descended on children who were playing outside as part of their daily routine.
According to local reports, Kanchan Bai acted quickly by wrapping approximately 20 children one by one in tarpaulin and mats available at the site and moving them into an inner room, shielding them with her own body. During this process, she was repeatedly stung by hundreds of bees, suffered severe injuries, and collapsed at the scene. Despite being rushed to the Community Health Centre by local police personnel and residents, she was declared dead on arrival by attending doctors.
The incident happened around midday when children were engaged in outdoor play at the Anganwadi centre in Ranpur village.
Observing the danger posed by the swarm, Kanchan Bai used tarpaulins and rugs to wrap and protect the children, moving them to safety indoors.
Sheepishly surrounded by bees, she bore the brunt of the attack until every child was safe.
Local police constable Kalunath and pilot Rajesh Rathore assisted in transporting her to the health centre.
Villagers witnessed her collapse and later expressed concern over a large beehive located on a tree near the Anganwadi centre, close to the village’s main handpump, which residents now avoid using for fear of another attack.
Kanchan Bai was not only the Anganwadi cook responsible for preparing mid-day meals for children but also the president of the Jai Mata Di Self-Help Group in the village. Her role extended beyond her job, contributing to local childcare and community welfare.
She is survived by her paralysed husband, Shivlal, and three children, one son and two daughters. Her family relied on her as the sole breadwinner. After her body was released to family members following a post-mortem examination, villagers paid silent tribute to her actions.
Following the incident, local residents have urged the district administration to remove the beehive near the Anganwadi centre to prevent future attacks and have also called for financial assistance to Kanchan Bai’s bereaved family.
The proximity of the beehive to the Anganwadi and community water source has raised ongoing safety concerns, prompting calls for immediate action by responsible authorities.
Bee stings can lead to pain, localized swelling, itching, and redness. In cases of multiple stings, venom can cause more severe systemic reactions, including:
Anaphylaxis (a potentially life-threatening allergic reaction)
Toxic reactions due to the cumulative amount of venom
Delayed complications in individuals with underlying health conditions
In rural settings, rapid access to emergency care may be limited, increasing the risk of fatal outcomes after massive bee attacks. Immediate medical interventions for extensive bee stings include antihistamines, steroids, and close clinical monitoring, especially for signs of anaphylaxis or organ dysfunction.
(Rh)